Language and Destiny: Insights from the Confucius Institute in Laos

by: Cici PANG, Form 6 student, Yan Chai Hospital Law Chan Chor Si Secondary School

Visiting ASEAN again, I followed the "Belt and Road Pioneer" from Cambodia to Laos, where I realized that language is a key for local young people to change their destiny. For me, a student from Hong Kong, those encounters and stories revealed the struggles and brilliance of different lives in this era.

The Power of Language: A Glimmer at the Crossroads of Destiny

Stepping into the Confucius Institute at the National University of Laos, I was filled with curiosity. I discovered that for many young people from grassroots backgrounds, this institute is a window of hope. My family is not well-off; after taking the DSE, I was fortunate enough to tutor others to supplement my family’s income. Yet in Laos, young people face even more challenges.

Since the China-Laos Railway opened over three years ago, passenger volume has exceeded 40 million. Chinese-funded enterprises and tourists have surged locally. Speaking Mandarin means opportunities to work in Chinese companies or railway stations, with starting salaries much higher than ordinary local jobs.

During exchanges at the Confucius Institute, I was amazed by the students’ fluent Mandarin. Seeing their Chinese review materials touched me deeply—their efforts reminded me of the struggles I share with fellow Hong Kong students. It also brought back memories of Cambodian primary students in red uniforms I met a year ago, enthusiastically counting "one, two, three" in Mandarin. Their proficiency was no less impressive than Hong Kong students counting in English. Young people’s struggles are surprisingly similar; theirs just include mastering an additional language—Chinese.

History and Rail Tracks: New Life on Scars

Mr. Sayakane SISOUVON, Chairman of the Lao Diplomatic Club at the National University of Laos, shared that the past "Secret War" left deep scars on Laos. A large number of unexploded ordnances (UXO) left by the U.S. severely hinder local agriculture and infrastructure. In contrast, the China-Laos Railway is clearing obstacles to development: freight trains transport rice and coffee out while bringing in machinery and parts. A journey from Vientiane to the border that once took two days now takes just over three hours (roughly the distance from Hong Kong to Hengyang, Hunan Province). Vegetables in markets are much fresher, and construction materials for roadside buildings are both cheaper and more varied.

As we left, the students were reluctant to bid farewell. A local classmate named An Xinlong and I exchanged contacts, feeling like we’d met too late. This exchange at the Confucius Institute made me rethink the profound connection between language education and social development. As a Hong Kong student proficient in "biliteracy and trilingualism," I feel a strong sense of mission—to use my language advantages to participate in international projects and deepen my understanding of the "Belt and Road Initiative." The Confucius Institute is not just a language-learning platform, but a vital bridge for cross-cultural understanding. Language, indeed, is everyone’s key to changing their destiny.

What China’s assistance has transformed is, ultimately, the destiny of local people. I now hope to apply my knowledge to international aid, contributing to improving their lives and letting hope and change endure on this land.

In summary, Dr. Wilson CHAN once told us, "You are representatives of Hong Kong youth and ambassadors of Chinese culture." I used to find the word "ambassador" too heavy, but now I understand—it simply means taking concrete action: like railways connecting two countries, turning invisible "opportunities" into tangible "changes."

I also thank the "Belt and Road Pioneer" for showing me such a vast world. My days at the Confucius Institute made me truly feel the global economic focus shifting to Southeast Asia. The "Belt and Road Initiative" is not just a national strategy, but a path beneath our young feet. I will cherish these encounters and walk forward with hope.